Re-Opening Our Stores after Lockdown

We are all, I am sure, relieved to hear that our enforced lockdown is nearly at an end. We will soon be able to go out to the shops and socialise a bit with our family and friends.

Now the date has been set, we here at Surrey Home and Gifts have been hard at work finalising details for our safe re-opening.

The close down was relatively simple. Boris said all non-essential businesses were to close, so that was that really. However opening is a little more tricky. Which is why we have taken the move to open each store one at a time. This gives us the chance to make sure that we are complying with all the health and safety regulations necessary to keep our customers and colleagues safe.

The first of our stores to open will be in Walton on Thames. So I wanted to give you a little bit of information as to the changes to expect when you visit.

We have organised a one way system around the shop. This has been designed to offer comfort and safety at all times.

The number of customers in the store at any one time will be limited. This will not only ensure safety, but also create a relaxed atmosphere which to browse.

There is a Hand Sanitiser Station at the door to the shop. Everyone entering will be encouraged to make use of this before continuing into the store.

Social distancing signs have been placed on the floor to ease recognition of the 2 meter best practice. These clear signs will make it far easier to navigate the store and stay safe.

Our till areas are fitted with plastic screens to protect the customers and staff. All surfaces and card machines will be cleaned after every transaction, and our colleagues are encouraged to sanitise their hands at regular intervals. At this time we are only able to accept card payments, either contactless or chip and pin. This is to ensure there is no cross contamination risk when handling cash.

In addition to this, when on the shop floor, our colleagues will wear masks and gloves.

We have become well known for our massive range of Woodwick and Yankee Candles

which, in order to be able to choose you need to smell. We ask that if you wish to do this then alert one of our members of staff, they can then supply you with a fresh set of gloves and clean the area once you are finished. This way you can be assured that every precaution is being taken to minimise the chance of cross contamination.

We also ask that you only touch what you are planning to purchase. This is especially important with our fabric items, such as cushions and scarves, as these will need to be removed from display for 72 hours if they have been handled!

Our Beautiful Surrey Blinds Showroom will be available by appointment only. This can be booked here

Anyone visiting the showroom will be asked to call when they arrive, so they can be invited in once it is safe to do so.

We are very excited to be reopening. And we are looking forwards to welcoming you back into a safe environment.

As always, stay safe and please support local businesses!